The Newton City Programs & Services Committee voted to forward the appointment of Ellen Penso to the city’s Council on Aging.

Chair Josh Brinson opened Item 2-87-25 on Nov. 19 and invited Penso to describe her interest. "I've been a long time, over 40 years, Newton resident," Penso said, adding that she is “a retired physician” and “an ombudsman at a nursing home through the SpringWell program” with more than 20 years of volunteer experience.

Committee members pressed Penso on the recent merger of the advisory committee with the Council on Aging and on the duties she has carried out as an ombudsman, including resident advocacy and working with social workers and administrators. Penso said she has focused on housing for seniors and welcomed possible multigenerational programs involving the new senior center.

Councilor Josh Brinson moved approval. The chair called the vote; members present voiced their assent and Brinson said the committee’s recommendation would go to the full council for final action.

The appointment will next appear on the full council docket for final confirmation.